Why Do Eyes Get Dry?

Tears are important for healthy eyes. There are three layers to the tear film: oil, water and mucus. These layers work together to lubricate the eyes, wash away debris and maintain clear vision. Dry eyes result when there are not enough tears or the tear film is not normal.

Decreased Tear Production

• Tear production decreases as people age. Although this occurs in men and women, it is more common in women, possibly because of hormonal changes.

Poor Tear Quality

• Problems with any of the three layers of the tear film can cause dry eye symptoms, including tears not sticking to the surface of the eyes or the tear layers not spreading across the cornea.

Eyelid Problems

• Inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis) can result in dry eyes. Eyelid abnormalities, such as ectropion (turning out of the lid margin) or entropion (turning in of the lid margin), can interfere with normal tear function.

Medications

• Both prescription medications (some high blood pressure medications, birth control pills and opiate medications) and over-the-counter medications (antihistamines and decongestants) can interfere with the tear film and cause dry eyes.

Other Causes

• Wind, sun, smoke and dust can cause dry eyes by evaporating the tear film. A lack of blinking during computer use can cause dry eye symptoms as well.